Deuteronomy 15:7-8
“If there is with you a poor man, one of your brothers, within any of your gates in your land which Yahweh your God gives you, you shall not harden your heart, nor shut your hand from your poor brother; but you shall open your hand wide to him, and shall surely lend him sufficient for his need, in that which he lacks.”
This passage is part of Moses' address to the Israelites as they prepare to enter the promised land. It's a series of laws and instructions intended to establish a just and compassionate society, reminding them of their covenant with God and their responsibilities to one another, especially the vulnerable.
What practical steps can we take to 'open our hand wide' to others' needs, both near and far?